Hungarian National Philharmonic Orchestra

Is it possible for Mozart not to be cheerful?
Yes, it is. In fact, what truly set Mozart apart from his contemporaries was his exceptional sense of drama – his gift for character portrayal, his masterful use of contrasts, and his ability to convey sudden shifts in mood. While it’s true that most of his works are in major keys and have a generally joyful character, this concert features three pieces that are dramatic and dark in tone – yet never depressing. It’s no coincidence that each of them became one of the most memorable and celebrated works in his oeuvre. Don Giovanni is often called “the opera of operas” – in which Mozart unleashed a veritable fireworks display of innovation and bold musical ideas. Even though he composed the overture on the very day of the premiere, it was an immediate success. The overture itself encapsulates the opera’s extremes: it is at once serious and dramatic, yet playful and mischievous. The Piano Concerto in C minor is one of only two concertos Mozart wrote in a minor key. Its elevated, heroic character later served as inspiration for Beethoven’s own C minor concerto. The Symphony in G minor was Mozart’s penultimate symphony and was never performed during his lifetime. It is perhaps his most famous symphony – familiar even to those who rarely, if ever, listen to classical music. Its popularity is no surprise: the music is strikingly honest – at times turbulent, yet filled with energy and vitality. The Hungarian National Philharmonic Orchestra is one of Hungary’s leading ensembles and has long kept these masterpieces in its repertoire. Mihály Berecz, a standout among the young generation of pianists, is deeply immersed in the Viennese classical tradition – performing not only on the modern piano, but also regularly giving concerts on the fortepiano. The concert will be conducted by György Vashegyi, who – in a way – is a close acquaintance of Mozart, as his artistic career centers around the research and performance of 18th-century music.
Spend an emotional and passionate evening with Mozart.